How to choose a good boarding kennel

Trusting someone to look after your precious pets while you are away on holiday can be tough, so you’ll have peace of mind if you do your research first. Here are our top tips on what to look for when choosing the right boarding kennel for your dog…

Good places book up fast, so start your search in plenty of time

Get a personal recommendation if possible, and check the kennel is licensed by the local authority

Drop in without an appointment and ask to look around – you’ll be able to tell a lot from an unannounced visit

Check the living area is warm, secure, clean and dry, with plenty of comfortable areas

Ensure the location is not prone to flooding

Dogs who don’t know each other should not be able to make nose, paw or eye contact – other dogs staring at them can be stressful

A good boarding kennel will ask lots of questions about your pet, including diet, to help keep to their routine

Where will your dog be exercised? Check the exercise area is safe and appropriate for your dog.

A good kennel will insist that dogs are up to date with vaccinations

Ask about insurance cover and what the procedure is for contacting a vet and you in case of a veterinary emergency

Find out how many staff there are per animal in the cattery

It’s a good idea to add the kennel’s name, address and number to your dog’s microchip along with the dates they are in their care, in case they go missing while you are away. Check with your dog’s microchip database to see if this is possible.

As an alternative you could consider employing a pet sitter who stays in your home while you are away, or find a home boarder who will look after your dog in their own home. Many dogs may find a home environment more comfortable and less stressful than a kennel environment.

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